In this engaging episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood is joined by Stephen Whitton to discuss microaggressions, the impact on young people within the car industry, and the resistance to diversity and inclusion initiatives. They explore the profound challenges of changing deep-rooted organisational cultures, particularly within male-dominated environments. Tackling topics such as toxic masculinity, discrimination by proxy, and the importance of being unashamedly oneself in the workplace, Joanne and Stephen shed light on the need for industries to evolve and embrace unique talents earnestly.
Stephen comes from a background in the motor trade industry and is a profound advocate for mental health and diversity. During his tenure at Vauxhall Finance and his own used car dealership, he honed his communication skills and an inclusive leadership style. His personal journey of coming out and facing financial and personal adversities led him to create the "MEN ABLE" movement and "Well-being Winners", aiming at transforming male-dominated industries by advocating for mental health, diversity, and inclusion. Stephen's unique approach involves spreading joy and challenging societal norms to inspire individuals to be authentic to their identity.
The conversation with Stephen in this episode reveals the resilience and resistance to change within organisational frameworks and discusses strategies to overcome them. Joanne and Stephen address the generational impact of these challenges, discussing the significance of positive role models and the longing for a cultural shift in workplace dynamics. In sharing his personal experiences of authenticity and transition, Stephen resonates with Joanne's understanding of 'joy' and the pursuit of happiness and sufficiency in life, a common theme throughout the discussion.
As the episode concludes, listeners are invited to explore the power of authenticity, the value of challenging norms, and the pursuit of mental wealth in professional environments. Both Joanne and Stephen highlight the crux of inclusion as not just a corporate checkbox but as a catalyst for real transformation, both at work and beyond.
The key takeaway from this insightful episode is the power of one's journey towards authenticity and the transformative impact that embracing diversity can have on professional environments. Listeners will be inspired by Stephen's mission to spread joy and facilitate societal change, underscoring the ties between personal fulfillment and inclusive cultures. This episode is a call to action for listeners to challenge traditional views, promote mental wealth, and foster environments where every individual can share joy and thrive.
